Did any of your favorite hidden gem restaurants in Downtown Chicago make our list? Just remember to carry some cash with you, as this little gem is cash only. There's even a small beer, wine, and spirit selection too. The restaurant was opened by a husband and wife team who were clamoring for a little taste of home. You cant go wrong adding Lula to the list of the best restaurants in Chicago. Whatever you order, you can test your heat tolerance with High Five Ramens tear-jerking kanabo spice. It can be a little difficult to find given its location but just make sure you follow the neon signs! 103 posts. The Franklin Room has an extensive selection of whiskey you can enjoy straight or in a cocktail like their signature Old Fashioned. Another must-try item is the fried jalapeno cornbread, their cornbread comes in a tall mound and it's mouth-watering. Brotherly love has never tasted as good as it does at this Lincoln Square bar. Garden of the Phoenix. Our favorites were the Duseks and the From Chile, With Love. Abby B. While it is located on 210 Center Street in the heart of downtown Little Rock, for whatever reason, the longtime lunch spot is still a relative unknown to some folks in the capital city. Vecina. Fresh, fast Indian food served in a flatbread wrap is just the thing when your hunger is big but your time is short. My sister and I come in at least once a month as itd be an incomplete month without dinner there. . Fun Facts: Star Wars creator George Lucas has been known to walk by and say hello. Flickr/Mark Weston. What are your favorite team building activities? Uncooked | 210 N. Carpenter St., Chicago, IL 60607 | $. visibility: hidden !important; But if you want something more traditional you can load up on tacos and quesadillas too. Its unassuming exterior caused us to wonder if we were on the right track. Seasonal menus that reimagine Thai cuisine make Herb a new adventure with every visit, in addition to it being one of the best restaurants in Chicago. Dont be fooled by Gene and Judes impersonators. Karissa Russ, a local photographer, raves, "My favorite hidden gem in Las Vegas is off the strip. They include reliable versions of seafood pasta, chicken Vesuvio, gnocchi, veal piccata, and more. This Zagat-listed pearl of an eatery blends Old World elegance with modern sensibilities for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Statues 10. (847) 677-9388. It doesnt garner as much attention as contemporary trattorias or the institutions on Taylor Street, but Bacchanalia is essential Italian dining all the same. Brown Bag Seafood Co. | 150 N. Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 60606 | $$$. Heritage Outpost Coffee. Theres also a drink menu that explores the ayurvedic properties such as warm, sweet, astringent, salty, bitter and pungent, each with its own signature cocktail. At The Sale Hunt you will find all the information you need for whatever question comes into your mind. They even stay open on holidays so that everyone nearby can feel like family. Located on the 7th floor of the Macy's store on State Street, theelegant space features Austrian crystal chandeliers and a menu featuring classic comfort food dishes like chicken pot pie and meatloaf. SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.c. The tropical setting and mellow vibes go hand in hand with the kitchens authentic Jamaican cooking. RELATED: Live Like A Local: 10 Most Authentic Austrian Cafes in Vienna. This restaurant is actually located right around the corner from the Oasis Cafe so if you're in the area and not in the mood for the Mediterranean but fiending for some Creole food then you've come to the right place. Au Cheval | 800 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60607 | $$. We suggest the one-two punch of the Tamal Oaxaca, a huge square of corn meal enfolding tender chunks of chicken with salsa (unbelievably good), and a smoothie of nopales, cool and sweet, made from cactus paddles very complimentary to chili heat. If you really want to feel like part of a secret club, buy a bottle to stash in the Whiskey Keep to enjoy whenever you visit. There's all kinds of things to do in this area like walking around and shopping . Listed in alphabetical order. Aran Morris: Gumbo, jambalaya, corn bread, collard greens. Then pick up some groceries on the way out and make an Italian feast for friends and family. Theres a reason this restaurant has been visited by. You'll get to see Chicago's biggest tourist sites, like Navy Pier, Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), Soldier Field, and the Lincoln Park Zoo, from a whole new vantage point. This is my favorite spot in the entire city, truly a hidden gem. Its a steal for bargain hunters and Italian food lovers alike. If you dont see the sign advertising fresh hummus, falafel, and chicken shawarma outside the Wabash Jewelers Mall,you'll probablymiss the Oasis Cafe. 9 years ago. The crme hearing melts in your mouth like a listerine strip. Even better cocktails and friendly staff. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! 3. The brunch menu is exemplary, as are the farm dinners, which provide a multi-course gourmet dining experience at a fixed price. If you do plan to stop by here, it's recommended you don't go on Sundays since the church crowd loves stopping by here after service and you might wind up waiting for a table for a long time. .goog-te-banner-frame { Hello, we'll be in Zurich at the end of August for 1st time. The food, drinks and staff. The Top 13 Wicker Park Restaurants. Of course, Monti's perhaps best known for its authentic, delicious, mother-water Philly cheesesteak. Sapori Trattoria | 2701 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614 | $$. The Hottest New Restaurants in Chicago, March 2023, Sometimes the tastiest foods are hidden in plain sight. A perfect blend between a cafe, deli, and market. It's 1946 and Dell Rhea is serving road warriors off Route 66. The second blues club to grace this list of Chicago hidden gems, Blue Chicago is a small 21-and-over blues venue that hosts some of Chicago's most talented musicians. Why arent you calling them with an order now? Oasis Cafe is a Mediterranean cafe located on N Wabash Avenue. The Dinner Crawl is just one of the reasons we think Andersonville is one of Chicago's best neighborhoods. via Old Chicago Inn featuring Room 13. Originally from the quaint beach town of Fenwick Island, Delaware, Stephanie has called Chicago home for nearly a decade. The spots proximity to Tribune Tower made it a popular hangout for journalists, and the restaurant boasts a Wall of Fame featuring pictures and writing from columnists including Mike Royko, Richard Roeper and Studs Terkel. 13750 S Bristlecone Drive #302 features 2 bedroom (s) and 2.0 bath (s). Address: 1527 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610. Whenever anyone from out of town asks about the best Chicago style pizza I send them to Pizanos and it never disappoints! Sarah P. Amazing Indian food? text-align: left !important; We'll never post anything without your permission. Juan's Flaming Fajitas & Cantina is a delicious restaurant that serves traditional Mexican favorites such as carinitas, enchiladas, and fajitas. To fuel your day of fun, Heritage Outpost is the perfect place to get your caffeine fix and pick up a sweet treat or two. .goog-tooltip, Not surprising that Topolobampo is one of the best restaurants in Chicago. Looking for hidden gems in chicago restaurants? Furama | 4936 N. Broadway St., Chicago, IL 60640 | $$$. Gotta have this type of spot, and for my money, this is the spot in Wicker/Ukrainian! Peter S. Nothing says summer in the city like an Italian ice from Marios. A gravel path meanders through Japanese maples, green spaces and pines. The best restaurants in Chicago are all about community! Even when alcohol became legal again, Chicagoans continued to enjoy the allure of secretive subterranean bars, and that mystique extends to hidden, you might miss unless you really know what youre looking for. They're literally hidden gems. Book Now. With so many great places to eat in Chicago in so many amazing corners of the city, how do you find the best restaurants in Chicago without running all over town? Watch popular content from the following creators: Cori Hanna | Travel Tips(@coriinthecity), Austin Spademan(@officebodgod), chifoodiebecs(@chifoodiebecs), OneofaKindHospitality(@oneofakindhospitality), Michela (@big_mich_energy), Ellery Rogers(@elegantlyellery), Chlobelle(@chlobellexxwanders), Chlobelle . I promise you wont be disappointed. Emilio B. Demera is not just the best Ethiopian food on the north side, its the best Ethipoian in the whole damn city. The azalea-studded Japanese garden features a waterfall and foot bridges. At Estrella Negra, gourmet Mexican street food favorites like coconut-crusted fried avocado and goat cheese quesadillas are presented in an eclectic setting strewn with funky decor and laid-back vibes. Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! The crme hearing melts in your mouth like a listerine strip. If you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine then you can't miss out on the Oasis Cafe. Bring companions in order to sample everything and dont forget to take advantage of the restaurants BYOB policy. Enjoy sandwiches, burgers, barbecue, Asian and Mexican selections that will make you wonder how vegan food has gotten so good! It's definitiely not dining hall fare! You are about to land at the right site. It's located in the basement of a high-rise building so it can be easy to miss, make sure you look up directions to ensure you get a chance to visit! Bistro Campagne- Chicago, Illinois; Cafe Luxembourg- New York, New York; CRUST- Miami, Florida; Frances- San Francisco, California; . DMK Burger Bar. From Yelp: "Listen- this place is many things. Its 1946 and Dell Rhea is serving road warriors off Route 66. Book a Chicago Food Tour Now Explore Chicago's best bites, esteemed eateries and hidden gems with a top-rated local guide. From acclaimed fine dining establishments to a historic. Chef Phillip Foss redefines fine dining by stripping away the stuffiness, creating a BYOB dinner party-like atmosphere, and serving his elevated cuisine in a super chill, industrial space. At Furama, youll find a delicious array of bites from dumplings to vegetable dishes in a sweet corner locale, with tables perfectly suited for huddling with friends to share your favorites. 9. Italian Lemonade is top notch! Julia A. Forget deep dish pizza: Chicago is a bustling city of many different cultures, and we have the best, more unknown places to eat listed here! And because the restaurant is open until 1 a.m., those staying out late can end the night with a hearty rice casserole. Order classics from soup to dessert or try the more contemporary casseroles, all presented for viewing in authentic bamboo baskets and cooked fresh to order. And while sure, this Uptown spot gets plenty of creds for their work, the fact that Demera is not on every Best Of in the city is a crying shame. Chicago Leaderboard Grab one of the colorful chairs in the plant-lined dining area and enjoy your meal with an agua fresca, smoothie or tepache, a sweet fermented drink made with pineapple rind. The bread is sourced from Amorosos and the menu offers variations like The Rocky, a fiery combination packing onions, smoked provolone, jalapeno, scotch bonnet, charred Serrano, and spicy mayo. Enjoy it all in a well-lit airy space with revolving contemporary art displays. This south side, all day diner has been serving up Chicagoans since 1955. Call 630 . In the March issue of her magazine she named this no-frills hot dog stand the No. Most tourists know that the Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue is the best place to shop. Hidden Gem Restaurant. Do not let that line intimidate you, moves rather quick. Reservations can be made by texting the restaurant directly. Film 7. Most of the produce comes from nearby markets and local . On Thursdays, the $28 three-course prix fixe includes the choice of any appetizer, entre, and dessert on the menu. It is considered a hidden gem but the cafe has been gaining popularity in recent years. Well, this week Elliott and Marley have you covered as they uncover Chicagoland's "Hidden Gems". Small Cheval is an off-shoot of Au Cheval, one of the best restaurants in Chicago, and based on Au Cheval's most famous menu item the cheeseburger. Longitud315. Check. Housemade pastas, reasonable prices, and a cozy atmosphere have made Buona Terra the kind of family-run trattoria that every neighborhood needs. Maybe like a book, we shouldnt judge a restaurant by its covererrr, building. Brunas offers hearty, no-nonsense pasta and chef specialties, as well as a dessert list filled with sweet classics. SafeHouse Chicago. From Yelp: Everything about Pub Royale is amazing. For the carnivores out there, the Adana Kebab Wrap with spicy ground meat is a winner, as is the chicken shawarma. RELATED: 10 Incredible Restaurants Only Locals Know In NYC. Japanese. Shanghai Terrace | 108 E. Superior St., Chicago, IL 60611 | $$$$. Just like a beloved nonna, this deli/restaurant comforts guests with a host of red sauce favorites. Try the Original Freddy (sausage patty, sweet peppers, mozzarella, red sauce) or the Mickey (eggplant and breaded steak combo, mozzarella, red sauce) sandwiches. My 9 things: John Legend's favorite places during a stay in Washington, D.C. My 9 Things: Questlove's top travel tips. Theres a lot of happy energy packed into this tidy space, and the exterior mural tribute to los Muertos is a must-see in one of the best restaurants in Chicago. RELATED: 10 Cat Cafes From Around The World Everyone Needs To Visit. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with local . Jo-El's is a real Jewish kosher deli and a true hidden gem restaurant! Packing tips and tricks. If you visit here make sure you try the chicken katsu, the Hawaiian barbecue short ribs, or the kalua pork. Their concept boasts high-quality seafood in a friendly counter format, and their reviews attest to their great food and fast service. } The subterranean spot in River North offers classic American tavern fare, including bone-in ribeye, spicy bourbon mussels, and raw oysters. The waitress was elegant and adorably sweet. From Yelp: A great restaurant the food is excellent. For the uninitiated, get the budae jjigae. Theres nothing like a goof old fashioned Shish-Kabob stand to get a Chicagoans heart pounding. Jo-El's Kosher Deli, Market & Cafe. A diner-style bar that wraps you in rich dcor and a sense of classicism, Au Cheval takes its spot as one of the best restaurants in Chicago by making the most of a bar-bites menu. Some are smothered in mole, yet theyll all have guests coming back for more. It's cooked home-style and everything is sizzling, hot, and fresh. For one of the best restaurants in Chicago, this one has things all wrapped up. And while this city-wide fav may not be underrated per-say, I definitely wanna start hearing more about it. More Info. The Billy Goat Tavern located on N Michigan Ave may not be much to look at but the burgers are divine and keep people coming back for more. } It's a great place to stop by for an after-dinner treat. Classics like lumpia, pancit, and lechon are well executed while colorful halo-halo is a refreshing finish to every meal. There are also fresh juices, and Uncooked uses compostable utensils and packaging for a fully sustainable operation in one of the best restaurants in Chicago. These neighborhood favorites stand toe-to-toe with the city's finest and deserve recognition too. Off the beaten path things to do in Chicago. Go for the weekend brunch and order the fried chicken and champagne, an odd yet delicious companionship. Piccolo Sogno | 464 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60642 | $. They even serve goat meat here and Birria. Even if chicken and waffles aren't your thing, there are plenty of other options on the menu. Open in Google Maps. Only . The best restaurants in Chicago leave you eager to come back soon, and Sun Wah a James Beard award-winning family eatery is no exception. Share your favorites over on social! This stripped-down Wicker Park restaurant serves . 10 Great Places To Eat in Chicago That Nobody Knows About, 10 Cat Cafes From Around The World Everyone Needs To Visit, Live Like A Local: 10 Most Authentic Austrian Cafes in Vienna, 10 Kawaii Anime Themed Cafes To Visit In Japan, 10 Incredible Restaurants Only Locals Know In NYC, 10 Bars & Restaurants From Movies You Can Actually Visit. , here are thehidden restaurants in Chicago that are worth searching out. Fortuantely, two former line cooks Juan Carlos and Octavio Garcia decided to carry on Doug Sohns legacy with their own restaurant. This Indian spot features vegetarian fare from both the north and south regions of the country. From Yelp: Perfect refreshment for those Chicago summer nights. One great aspect of North Pond is it nearby the Lincoln Park. Filipino cuisine is underrepresented in Chicago but Isla is a standout that makes up for its scarcity. Or Anywhere? Be sure to try the traditional Arabian coffee with cardamom as well; it delivers a real kick. But when it comes to the best places to eat in Chicago, many come with unfamiliar names; sometimes the true gems are just off the beaten path. Delicious Chinese barbecue and Hong Kong specialties practically leap off the menu at hungry diners eager for an authentic Chinese dining excursion. Discover short videos related to hidden gem restaurant chicago on TikTok. Plus, if you decide to eat somewhere lesser-known you'll probably be served much quicker! 230 W Kinzie St, Chicago. Owner Mistie Ellis grew up working in her family's Mexican restaurants in Kansas and ran across the Tulsa location when she took her daughter to softball batting . Discover the best in culinary experiences and products on Cozymeal: From in-person cooking Reservations are required, and the spot is only open Friday through Sunday. The sights and smells of Devon Avenue can be overwhelming for those who are unfamiliar so sticking with where the locals eat is always a smart decision. This low-key space offers industrial dcor to augment its extensive menu of Thai favorites, all available for dine-in or delivery. They make their buns from scratch in the kitchen and they help create a sensational burger, not one you'll soon forget. 4714 W Touhy Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712. Once a Wrigley Field favorite in 1945, these hot dogs then found a River Grove storefront to call their home. RELATED: 10 Kawaii Anime Themed Cafes To Visit In Japan. 7. La Chaparrita | 2500 S. Whipple St., Chicago, IL 60623 | $. It's a nice little Argentine restaurant with a really great tapas menu, so it's fun to bring a group of friends and sample all the great tapas dishes. 3. For a drink, you should try their homemade strawberry lemonade, many have raved that it's sublime. They may be known for their deep dish pizzas but there are so many different places to dine in and different cuisines to experience it would be a shame if you missed out on some of Chicago's hidden gems by only visiting the most popular places. Chinatown is brimming with intriguing dishes. A hidden gem outside of the city. Believe it or not, Hawaiian cuisine consists of more than just poke. Feed your comfort-food soul and be sure to visit the gift shop to take some Scandinavian treats home with you. CozymealTM, Inc. 2013-2023 - Phone: 800-369-0157, We use cookies to offer you a better browsing experience, analyze site traffic and personalize content. When it comes to the best Italian restaurants in Chicago, Pisolino is top for variety. With its trim menu of thoughtful gourmet dishes and chic-yet-comfortable ambiance, The Warbler brings American cuisine to the table with a touch of wit. Love Illinois? Its breezy interior matches Psistaria's joyful celebration of Mediterranean fare: The stuffed grape leaves swim in a lemon cream sauce that tastes like an entire citrus . The Hidden Gems of Chicago UChicago, Hyde Park, and the city of Chicago are home to many great treasures, whether it be coffee shops, stores, restaurants, or places to hang out. Great Mango Lassis? This worthy successor boasts a similar menu and even uses the same sausage purveyor as Hot Dougs so fanatics can still enjoy a rich foie gras dog. Hannahs Bretzel is one of the best restaurants in Chicago for that reason alone. "Maybe people haven't found this hidden gem yet. This famous fried chicken was served in a basket so customers could hop out of the car, run up to the counter and return to their cars with a heaping basket of hot, finger-licking fried chicken and perfectly paired sides. The friendly service, generous portions and fair prices will have you believing you found a serious diamond in the rough. You have to try the Paidakia; it melts in your mouth. Today. Lula Caf | 2537 N. Kedzie Blvd., Chicago, IL 60647 | $$. Dos Urban Cantina | 2829 W. Armitage, Chicago, IL 60647 | $$$. , hidden bars established during Prohibition so that those in the know could still get a drink. I ordered steak on a skewer for lunch, the meat was." more. 1. This mom-and-pop Korean spot is easy to miss but worth seeking out. And while, true, all of those places are great theres just so much more to this citys food scene than the big name players. If you continue to use this site, you consent to our use of cookies Accept. Located inside an old brick building, this large stock of literature, children's books, magazines, and newspapers is a hidden gem worth regular visits. Joliet. The only business in the tiny hamlet of Clifton, The Longbranch is run by two chefs, Nicholas and Lindsay Bohn, who were trained at Le Cordon Bleu. body { It also has tons of great restaurants, it's even being hailed as Chicago's next great restaurant row. Open in Google Maps. While it may not be quite as popular as Los Angeles or New York City, Chicago is still a bustling city full of different cultures, rich history, and many places to eat delicious food. Sign up for emails about special offers, recipes and more. Sit and enjoy your favorite foods from the cafe, like bagels with tasty spreads, and then when you're done, get all of the meats for the holiday foods. You need to go beneath Michigan Avenue to find the Billy Goat Tavern, which has been serving up cheezborgers since 1964. There is no better pastime then enjoying a baseball game and a hot dog. Piccolo Sogno translates to little dream, and what a little dream it is among all the best restaurants in Downtown Chicago! Romeoville. (702) 331-5500. They span a variety of different specialties, from Kurdish and Garifuna cooking to tamales and Philly cheesesteaks, and are as reliable as can be so Chicagoans would do well to try them out. By submitting your email, you agree to our, 20 of Chicago's Most Underrated Restaurants, 2018 Edition, Sign up for the The Spice Room | 435 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60654 | $$$$. The Indian Garden | 247 E. Ontario St., Chicago, IL 60611 | $$. Shanghai Terrace is one of the best restaurants in Chicago for atmosphere and fine dining. Level Contributor . It is rumoured that customers queue up Plus, theres fondue for crying out loud! Try the Plateia Mediterranean Kitchen. Third, the 1920s jazz music playing in the windowless dining room makes this place feel like it exists outside of the normal space/time continuum. Hi! Enjoy Mexico City-style street tacos with all the fixings, served in a cozy, authentic grocery store locale plus an al pastor taco that wins raves from patrons time and again. 1126 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101. A $40 seasonal three-course menu includes dishes like seared scallops with salmon roe, braised beef short rib with polenta and housemade sorbet. 1467 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-360-7650. Enjoy the tequila and orange grilled salmon or the coconut shrimp, and find out what the Travel Channel and NBC Around Town have been talking about. Bar Takito | West Loop District, 201 N. Morgan St., Chicago, IL 60607 | $$. People love their crab rangoon, walnut shrimp, potstickers, and orange chicken. They allow for samples too so you can get your sugary fill before picking out whatever divine desserts most appeal to your palette. Make sure to leave the credit cards in the wallet, cash only at Old Town Ale House. Youll find burgers, egg dishes and cocktails in addition to an expansive beer and wine list. From Yelp: From the outside it doesnt look like much. Virtue | 1462 E. 53rd St., Chicago, IL 60615 | $$$. 200 N LaSalle St Ste 1540 Chicago, IL 60601 Here, you'll find rustic, seasonal dishes and simple food done well. Stop in during weekday lunch hours for specials thatll satisfy both the stomach and wallet. This condo has been listed on @properties since March 3rd, 2023 and was built in 1990. Tuck Shop Kitchen & Bar. On the contrary, Birrieria Zaragoza will give you some of the best Mexican food in all of Chicago. This place tends to get packed during the busy hours like lunch and dinner but that's because the food is to die for. Load up on smoked trout or salmon, or sit outside on their simple picnic tables and enjoy some finger-licking fried shrimp. 2022. .goog-tooltip:hover { Chicago is a great music city and, with it, a hidden gem - Maggie Speaks. Book a tour to get started on your search for the best Chicago restaurants; or, get started exploring the foodie scene on your own with our choices for the 41 best restaurants in Chicago. The leading independent voice for aviation news and insight. Pisolino | 2755 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL 60618 | $$. A cozy Italian restaurant that serves up classic dishes done gourmet-style in a warm Old World atmosphere, Sapori creates beloved recipes using fresh ingredients and a passion for tradition. Au Cheval. Located on Wooded Island in Jackson Park, the serene Garden of the Phoenix is one of Chicago's hidden gems. Youll find fun, contemporary versions of Indian classics at Mango Pickle, which is among the best restaurants in Chicago. This highly-awarded creation from Rick Bayless presents its offerings in an artful menu separated into headings such as Vibrant, Soulful, Enchanting and Luxurious. For a bit of culinary excitement at Amarind's, you can give your selections a kick by ordering them with authentic Thai spiciness. Its comprised of shellfish with potatoes, carrots, peas, cassava, onions, and peppers. In her free time, Jessica can be found hanging out with her dog Indie, watching the Food Network or commiserating with fellow, unfortunate White Sox fans. This is a little hole in the wall eatery perfect for people who are either from Hawaii and wanting a taste of home or anyone who just enjoys Hawaiian food, particularly barbecue. for all types of questions. West Loop. Cultura Subs. Head to this Lincoln Park cafe to discover other island favorites, such as curry chicken katsu, loco moco, and Spam musubi. Gilt Bar is the speakeasy-style restaurant next door owned by the same people, and it's not nearly as hard to get into. Cozy booths? Even when alcohol became legal again, Chicagoans continued to enjoy the allure of secretive subterranean bars, and that mystique extends to hiddenChicago restaurantsyou might miss unless you really know what youre looking for. Everyone needs an uncle who makes jerk chicken as tasty as this Cottage Grove restaurant. Topo Gigio. Theyve been featured on the Food Network favorite Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives and their well-lit interior and overstuffed menu means youll find exactly what youre looking for in the best restaurants in Chicago. Started in 1998 as a local nightclub and festival band, they have grown over the last 24 years into one of the most sought-after bands in the nation. These homemade tamales are filled with everything from chicken and pork to soy and eggplant. By day, Arbor is a caf that sells baked goods, grain bowls, salads, and sandwiches, but at night it becomes an elevated restaurant. Calumet Fisheries, which is found at the 95th Street Bridge (the same bridge the Blues Brothers jumped off in the 1980s film), has been smoking fish in-house since the 1940s. By 866TaylorB. Hidden places in Chicago to shop for oddities. My husband and a few friends stopped in on a Tuesday night a little before 7, so we made it in time for happy hour. Take a look at some of our favorite under-the-radar finds in our diverse neighborhoods. They're known for hosting many special events, people often come here for their Easter brunches or to celebrate a special occasion such as an anniversary meal. Explore Chicago's best bites, esteemed eateries and hidden gems with a top-rated local guide. } Flickr/S Jones. We also love their eclectic dcor for in-house photo ops. . This charming eatery opened in 1933, the year prohibition became a thing of the past, and the history in one of the best restaurants in Chicago can be felt in the space and the menu. We already have this email. Tucked inside La Chaparrita Grocery in Little Village, La Chaparrita Taqueria offers an authentic taste of Mexico with carne asada, beef tongue, housemade longaniza and al pastor tacosall accompanied by onions, cilantro, sliced radish, lime wedges and a trio of sauces.